In the piece, Kobe lovingly puts his arm around Gigi as they share a warm glance.

He pushed through, carrying each piece individually, as he knew that’s what Kobe would have advised.

He was an [intellectual], he spoke multiple languages, he was an avid reader.

All passengers, including the pilot, perished in the accident.

Throughout the day, as people came to pay their respects, fans took photographs with the statue.

For Medina, it was an emotional experience to see the effect that his art had on others.

Ive had so many parents cry in my arms today, he said.

The names of all the victims are inscribed on the statue’s pedestal.

Medina is also working on a life-size sculpture that he hopes to install in downtown Los Angeles.

Medina has said that he’s looking to donate his work for a permanent, public installation.